Classic Hot and Sour Soup

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Few soups can boast the bold, addictive flavor profile of Classic Hot and Sour Soup. This beloved dish is a staple in Chinese-American cuisine, offering a perfect balance of heat from white pepper and tang from vinegar, combined with the richness of earthy mushrooms and silky tofu. Whether you’re craving something comforting on a chilly day or looking for a quick starter that impresses with flavor, this soup is a go-to.

What makes this soup so unique is its contrasting layers of taste and texture. The hot-and-sour combo delivers a zesty punch, while the mix of tender tofu, crunchy vegetables, and soft egg ribbons keeps every bite interesting. This recipe captures the restaurant-style version and simplifies it just enough for home cooking without sacrificing authenticity.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect bowl of Classic Hot and Sour Soup, preparation is key. Here’s what you’ll need to get started and why each item matters:

• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: This is your main cooking vessel. It provides even heating and enough space to combine and simmer all the ingredients without overcrowding.
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Essential for prepping vegetables and tofu with precision and speed. A stable cutting surface ensures safety and uniform chopping, which is crucial for even cooking.
• Whisk or Fork: Needed for beating the eggs before streaming them into the soup, creating delicate egg ribbons.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: These ensure accuracy when adding bold ingredients like vinegar, soy sauce, and pepper, which can easily overwhelm if not properly measured.
• Ladle: For easy serving and stirring the soup gently to maintain the right texture of the ingredients.

Having these tools in place before you begin ensures a smooth cooking process and helps you maintain the ideal balance of flavor and consistency in your hot and sour soup.

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Ingredients for the Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Understanding each component in this soup helps highlight its iconic flavor. Here are the star ingredients and why they matter:

• Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The savory foundation that carries all the flavors. Choose a rich, well-seasoned broth for maximum depth.
• Firm Tofu: Provides a soft, satisfying bite that absorbs the soup’s flavors without falling apart.
• Shiitake Mushrooms: Earthy and chewy, these mushrooms bring umami and texture. You can use fresh or rehydrated dried ones.
• Carrots and Green Peas: These add color, sweetness, and crunch, balancing the spicy-tangy profile.
• Soy Sauce: Delivers saltiness and umami depth, enhancing the overall complexity of the soup.
• White Pepper: The “hot” in hot and sour. It gives the soup its signature heat without overpowering.
• Rice Vinegar: The “sour” part. Its mild acidity brightens and balances the richness of the broth.
• Cornstarch Slurry: A simple mix of cornstarch and water to thicken the soup into that classic glossy texture.
• Eggs: Whisked and streamed in to create those iconic silky ribbons that float beautifully in the soup.
• Sesame Oil (optional): Adds a nutty fragrance that finishes the dish with a warm, toasty note.

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How To Make the Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

In a large soup pot, bring your broth to a gentle simmer. Add soy sauce, vinegar, white pepper, and sliced shiitake mushrooms. Let it simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the mushrooms to release their flavor.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Tofu

Stir in diced carrots and green peas. Simmer for another 3–4 minutes until just tender. Then gently add tofu cubes. Be careful not to break them as they cook.

Step 3: Thicken the Soup

Create a cornstarch slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Stir it into the simmering soup, cooking for 2–3 minutes until the broth thickens and becomes glossy.

Step 4: Add Egg Ribbons

Whisk the eggs in a small bowl. Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the soup while stirring gently in a circular motion. This forms delicate egg ribbons throughout.

Step 5: Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust with more vinegar or white pepper as needed. A drizzle of sesame oil at the end gives a lovely depth if using.

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How to Serve and Store Classic Hot and Sour Soup

Serve Classic Hot and Sour Soup piping hot as a starter or light main course. A sprinkle of chopped scallions on top adds freshness and a pop of color. Pair it with steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or jasmine rice for a more filling meal.

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring gently to keep the tofu intact. Avoid boiling again to preserve the texture of the egg ribbons and tofu.

Freezing isn’t recommended, as tofu and cornstarch-thickened broth can become grainy once thawed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this soup?

The heat level is moderate due to the white pepper, but you can adjust it to your liking. Add more for a stronger kick or reduce it for a milder taste.

Can I use other types of mushrooms?

Absolutely. While shiitake offers great umami, wood ear, oyster, or button mushrooms are all fine alternatives depending on availability.

What can I use instead of tofu?

You can substitute tofu with cooked chicken or omit it entirely if you prefer a lighter version. Tempeh also works for a protein-rich vegetarian option.

How do I get perfect egg ribbons?

Make sure the soup is gently simmering, not boiling. Stir in one direction and slowly drizzle in the whisked eggs to form silky strands.

Is this soup gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and check that your broth and vinegar are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, add the cornstarch slurry and eggs right before serving to keep it fresh and silky.

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Want More Soup Ideas That Satisfy?

If you’re loving this Classic Hot and Sour Soup, you’ll definitely want to try these delicious soup and comfort food recipes from Life With Olivia:

• Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup for a cheesy, cozy meal in a bowl.
• Hearty Creamy Ditalini Soup for Chilly Nights that’s perfect for cold weather cravings.
• Louisiana Seafood Gumbo if you’re in the mood for something bold and Southern-inspired.
• Hearty Vegetarian Tortellini Soup for a meatless, flavor-packed alternative.
• Moroccan Sweet Potato Soup with Chickpeas for a fragrant, globally-inspired twist.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can revisit it anytime you’re in the mood for a comforting, spicy, and tangy soup!

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And let me know in the comments how your soup turned out! Did you go heavy on the heat? Add in extra mushrooms? I’d love to hear your twist on this classic.

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